Nissan Ariya: A Bold Leap for Electric Motoring

The automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift towards electrification, and at the forefront of this transformation stands the Nissan Ariya. This all-electric crossover isn't just another addition to Nissan's lineup; it represents a pivotal moment, embodying the company's ambitious NEXT global transformation plan and showcasing its new electrified brand identity. As Nissan sets its sights on a future where over 40 percent of its US vehicle sales will be fully electric by 2030, the Ariya emerges as a cornerstone of this forward-thinking strategy.

The Genesis of the Ariya: A New Dawn for Nissan

More than a decade ago, the Nissan Leaf pioneered the electric vehicle revolution, bringing zero-emission technology to the masses. While a significant achievement, the Leaf, as a hatchback, has seen its segment evolve rapidly. Nissan's response is the Ariya, a new generation of all-electric SUV that aims to recapture the company's innovative spirit. Described by Nissan as a coupe-crossover, its design is undeniably futuristic, boasting a sleek and swooping silhouette. Yet, beneath this striking exterior lies practicality, offering ample space for five passengers and their luggage, a testament to its intelligent design.

Design and Exterior Appeal

The Ariya's exterior is a departure from conventional SUV styling. Its smooth front end, devoid of a traditional grille, houses lights that remain discreetly dark until activated, lending it a clean and modern aesthetic. The production-ready Ariya faithfully retains the captivating looks of its concept predecessor. Optional 20-inch alloy wheels, featuring aerodynamic plastic inserts, further enhance its visual appeal and contribute to improved range. The two-tone paintjob on some models adds a sophisticated touch, solidifying its status as a design-led vehicle.

Powertrain and Performance: Electrifying Options

Nissan has engineered the Ariya to cater to a diverse range of driving needs and preferences, offering four distinct powertrain configurations depending on the market. The range begins with a rear-wheel-drive version equipped with a 65 kWh battery, delivering 215 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up, another rear-wheel-drive variant shares the same power output but features a larger 90 kWh battery pack. For those seeking enhanced traction and performance, two all-wheel-drive options are available, each utilising two electric motors. The first of these boasts a 65 kWh battery and produces 335 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the more potent iteration utilizes the 90 kWh battery, unleashing a formidable 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. These configurations highlight Nissan's commitment to providing exhilarating yet efficient electric driving experiences.

Powertrain Specifications at a Glance

Interior Ambiance: A Sanctuary of Innovation

Stepping inside the Ariya, Nissan has meticulously crafted a cabin that exudes an upscale and minimalist ambiance. The use of high-grade materials and a clean, uncluttered dashboard design creates a sense of spaciousness, further amplified by the dedicated EV platform. The seats are not only aesthetically pleasing but also offer exceptional comfort and support, with a wide range of adjustments for both the seats and the steering wheel ensuring an ergonomic driving position for all. While the majority of the cabin impresses, a minor quibble could be the presence of some hard plastics on the rear of the steering wheel, though this is a small point in an otherwise refined interior.

The dashboard features twin 12.3-inch screens that serve as the driver's information hub and infotainment system. While perhaps not as visually stunning as some rivals, the Ariya introduces a novel approach to controls. It seamlessly blends touch-sensitive buttons with haptic feedback integrated directly into the dashboard's surface, offering a futuristic and intuitive user experience. This approach eschews traditional plastic buttons for a sleeker, more integrated look.

A standout feature of the Ariya's interior is its electrically adjustable centre console. This innovative element can slide forward or backward, allowing it to serve as a high-set armrest or slide back to create a clear, open space between the driver and passenger. Adding to the cabin's technological prowess is an electrically sliding tray that emerges from the dashboard, operated via one of the 'hidden' dashboard buttons. Although its slow, deliberate movement might seem over-engineered, the tray's cover feels somewhat less substantial in comparison.

Practicality is not overlooked, with the inclusion of various USB charging ports, a wireless charging pad, and covered cup holders. The glovebox is deep, though its height is somewhat limited. In the rear, the flat floor, a direct benefit of the EV platform, ensures generous legroom and headroom, even with the optional panoramic glass roof. Rear passengers benefit from air vents and USB sockets. The doors open wide, facilitating easy access, and ISOFIX points are present on the outer rear seats, as well as the front passenger seat. The soft white ambient lighting integrated into the doors and floor adds a touch of premium refinement to the cabin.

Boot Space and Practicality

The boot of the Nissan Ariya offers a respectable amount of space. The Evolve model, in particular, features a power-operated tailgate for added convenience. A clever movable floor, similar to that found in the Nissan Qashqai, enhances versatility. This floor is split into two sections and can be configured to house charging cables beneath a false floor or raised to create a completely flat cargo area when the rear seats are folded down. The overall quality and thoughtful design of the boot space are noteworthy.

The Driving Experience: Smooth, Refined, and Engaging

The Nissan Ariya delivers a compelling driving experience, characterised by responsive steering and taut body control, making it enjoyable when driven with enthusiasm. It corners with impressive flatness, though this engaging dynamic comes at the cost of a somewhat firm ride. While not as uncompromising as some rivals, the Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq might offer a more compliant ride. It's worth noting that the test car in question was fitted with larger alloy wheels and lower-profile tyres, which likely exacerbated the firmness. A test drive on standard wheels is recommended before making a purchase decision.

Despite rivals offering rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Ariya's front-wheel-drive setup, with its 242 hp output, performs admirably. Nissan has excelled in managing power delivery, ensuring that traction is rarely an issue. When driven gently, the Ariya is exceptionally quiet and refined, further enhanced by the inclusion of double-glazed side glass, which significantly reduces cabin noise.

The Ariya features Nissan's signature e-Pedal system, allowing for predominantly one-pedal driving. This innovative system enables drivers to modulate acceleration to control both speed and deceleration, a feature first seen in the Nissan Leaf. For those who prefer a more conventional driving style, an enhanced brake energy regeneration mode is selectable via the stubby drive selector on the centre console. During testing, the Ariya achieved an average energy consumption of approximately 20 kWh/100km, even with some spirited driving on back roads, though extended motorway journeys were not part of the evaluation.

Charging Capabilities

Charging access is conveniently located via a flap on the passenger side front wing. At a rapid DC charger, the Ariya can accept a maximum rate of 130kW. This allows the 65 kWh battery to be charged from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes. The larger 90 kWh battery will naturally take longer, but Nissan claims a similar 30-minute charging time for an 80 percent top-up. A 7.4kW AC charger is included as standard, with an optional upgrade to a 22kW unit available to maximise the benefits of the public AC charging network.

Production and Global Strategy: A Brexit Consideration

The manufacturing location for the Nissan Ariya destined for European markets became a point of strategic consideration due to the implications of Brexit. Initially, Nissan had considered producing the Ariya at its Sunderland assembly plant in the UK. However, the prospect of a 'no-deal' Brexit and the associated 10 percent tariff on British auto exports to the EU influenced this decision. Consequently, Nissan opted to build EU-bound Ariya models in Japan. Vehicles manufactured in Japan face a lower 7.5 percent tariff in the EU, a tariff that is set to be abolished entirely by 2026. Production for the European and United States markets will be handled by Nissan's plant in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Meanwhile, Ariya models sold in China will be manufactured locally, highlighting Nissan's global manufacturing flexibility.

Trim Levels and Pricing in Ireland

In Ireland, the Nissan Ariya model range starts with the Advance trim, priced from €48,995. The lineup also includes the Evolve trim level, offering a choice between 63kWh and 87kWh batteries. The smaller 63kWh battery is paired with a 217hp electric motor. The 87kWh battery offers two motor options: a 242hp single-motor variant and a more powerful 306hp dual-motor, all-wheel-drive model. Both the Advance and Evolve specifications are available with all three powertrain options.

Key Features by Trim Level

• Advance Trim: 19-inch alloy wheels, full LED headlights, heated windscreen and mirrors, auto lights and wipers, privacy glass, twin 12.3-inch screens (driver and infotainment), 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, wireless Apple CarPlay, automatic parking, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
• Evolve Trim: Includes all features of the Advance trim, plus a panoramic opening glass roof, Bose stereo system, adaptive main beam headlights, ventilated front seats, head-up display, power tailgate, and LED ambient lighting.

Nissan Ireland advises potential buyers to check their website for the latest offers, as the model line-up is expected to expand over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where is the Nissan Ariya manufactured for the European market?
For the European market, the Nissan Ariya is manufactured in Japan, at Nissan's plant in Tochigi Prefecture, due to considerations related to Brexit tariffs.

Q2: What are the different battery options for the Nissan Ariya?
The Nissan Ariya is available with two battery options: a 63kWh (or 65kWh in some markets) and an 87kWh (or 90kWh in some markets) unit.

Q3: What is the charging speed of the Nissan Ariya?
The Ariya supports a maximum DC rapid charging rate of 130kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes for both battery sizes. It also comes with a 7.4kW AC charger as standard, with an optional 22kW upgrade available.

Q4: What are the main rivals to the Nissan Ariya?
Key rivals include the Renault Megane E-Tech Electric, Skoda Enyaq, Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6.

Q5: Does the Nissan Ariya have an e-Pedal system?
Yes, the Nissan Ariya features the e-Pedal system, allowing for one-pedal driving by modulating the accelerator to control speed and deceleration.

Verdict: A Strong Contender in the Electric SUV Segment

The Nissan Ariya stands out as a strong contender in the increasingly competitive electric SUV sector and undoubtedly deserves a place on any prospective buyer's shortlist. Its distinctive design sets it apart from anything else in the Nissan lineup, offering a fresh and futuristic aesthetic. The new EV platform underpins a spacious interior and competent handling dynamics. While the ride can be on the firmer side, it remains within acceptable parameters for the segment, and the levels of refinement and comfort are first-rate. Coupled with a design-led interior featuring numerous thoughtful touches, the Nissan Ariya appears poised to be a significant success for the brand.